While current progress of the research in metamaterials technology has produced many solutions for devices in imaging, sensing and analysis, at industrial level the most promising routes remain largely aligned to CMOS compatible manufacturing approaches. ST is the first world leading company manufacturing metasurfaces for consumer products, using a silicon-based platform, for time-of-flight sensors in the near infrared region.
With this project we aim to explore viable material and processing platforms to extend the capabilities of the metasurface technology at industrial scales to wider spectral ranges, both towards shorter and longer wavelengths and including tunability.
The student will have access to state-of-the-art fabrication and characterization facilities at the University of St Andrews to develop the new generation of artificial materials for advanced photonic applications. This will enable the creation of novel devices, specifically aimed at augmented reality for position and motion sensing. The partnership with ST offers the unique opportunity to align the research to industrial relevant processes and requirements.
The student will be working at the University of St Andrews, co-supervised by the groups of Synthetic Optics and Nanophotonics, within the School of Physics and Astronomy. These groups have close ties, e.g. regular joint group meetings, creating a collaborative working environment of approximately 15 staff and students supported by two PIs. Within this setting the student will have access to the nanofabrication facilities, including multiple cleanrooms, electron beam and optical lithography systems, material deposition such as sputterer, evaporators, etc. Characterisation facilities include scanning electron microscopes, optical setups from the visible to near infrared spectral regions, and material characterisation, e.g. profilometry and ellipsometry. The student will also be part of the wider photonics research environment in the School of Physics and Astronomy, with a cohort of approximately 100 staff and students.
The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of St Andrews has Juno Champion status (Institute of Physics) which reflects its commitment to family friendly policies and creating a work environment of benefit to all staff and students.
It has flexible and part time working policies for staff and features guidelines for full time vs part time study for students.
The supervision team are happy to discuss these with candidates when desired.
CDT Essential Criteria
A Masters level degree (MEng, MPhys, MSc) at 2.1 or equivalent
Desire to work collegiately, be involved in outreach, undertake taught and professional skills study
Project Essential Criteria
None
Project Desirable Criteria
A background in photonics or nanofabrication is desirable. Similar optical characterisation experience would also be desirable.
The CDT
The CDT in Applied Photonics provides a supportive, collaborative environment which values inclusivity and is committed to creating and sustaining a positive and supportive environment for all our applicants, students, and staff. For further information, please see our ED&I statement https://bit.ly/3gXrcwg. Forming a supportive cohort is an important part of the programme and our students take part in various professional skills workshops, including Responsible Research and Innovation workshops and attend Outreach Training.
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